Parade of Homes™
Connecting with the Community
For nearly twenty years, Kara Bolton Homes has proudly participated in the Builders Association of North Central Florida Parade of Homes™, inviting the Gainesville community to experience thoughtful neighborhood planning, quality craftsmanship, and evolving design trends. As Kara’s work expands to the coast, that same commitment continues in North Carolina. In October 2026, Waterwoman’s Oasis will make its debut in the Outer Banks Home Builders Association Parade of Homes—celebrating resilient coastal construction, water-inspired living, and the shared values of two distinct but connected markets.
Industry Advocacy
Kara Bolton has been an advocate for the construction industry since 2004, lending her voice and leadership to issues impacting builders, housing affordability, and workforce development. As past President of the Builders Association of North Central Florida and 2024 Builder of the Year, Kara brings decades of Florida experience to her expanding work in the Outer Banks—bridging regional perspectives while supporting strong, sustainable building communities in both states.
Collaboration
Building well in two regions requires collaboration. Kara values strong working relationships with fellow builders, designers, engineers, and trades—both in Florida and along the Outer Banks—where shared knowledge and local expertise are essential. From exchanging construction techniques to adapting details for coastal conditions, collaboration strengthens outcomes and deepens community ties across markets.
Mentorship
Mentorship is a cornerstone of Kara Bolton Homes. Kara enjoys sharing lessons learned from decades of building in Florida while remaining curious and connected to new ideas, tools, and technologies shaping the future of construction. As she builds in both Gainesville and the Outer Banks, mentoring young professionals helps bridge generations, regions, and evolving methods—ensuring quality and care continue forward.
Women’s Empowerment
As a woman builder working across two traditionally male-dominated markets, Kara is passionate about empowering women to lead with confidence. She helps create spaces—both formal and informal—where women can connect, network, and take meaningful risks. By sharing her own journey in Florida and North Carolina, Kara encourages women to step into leadership roles and build careers that reflect their values and strengths.
Construction Education
Education connects communities and careers. Kara regularly welcomes students to her job sites, offering real-world learning experiences that complement classroom instruction. From University of Florida Construction Management students to members of the National Association of Women in Construction UF Student Chapter, these tours reflect Kara’s commitment to workforce education—an effort she plans to continue as she builds homes and mentorship pathways in the Outer Banks.
Memorial Scholarship
A portion of revenue from every Kara Bolton Homes sale—whether in Florida or North Carolina—is pledged to the Evan Thomas Bolton Memorial Scholarship at the M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management. The scholarship supports junior-level or higher Construction Management students who demonstrate financial need, a love of the ocean, and a passion for marine life. Through this legacy, Kara honors Evan’s playful spirit while connecting her coastal work, educational advocacy, and belief in building futures that matter.
